Adults

"Normal" development

Like nearly half of all known frog species, wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) lay their eggs and fertilize them in water; neither parent subsequently cares for the offspring.

No Tadpole Required

In direct development, frogs lay eggs from which fully developed froglets hatch. Some species protect their eggs by carrying them on their backs until the froglets emerge. Skipping the tadpole stage means land-based frogs don't need to locate water.